(COLORADO SPRINGS) — El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO) deputies apprehended two suspects and recovered a stolen vehicle thanks to Flock Safety cameras.

On Saturday, May 17, EPSO deputies were alerted by the cameras to a stolen vehicle, identified as a silver Saab sedan with a Colorado license plate, driving eastbound on Platte Avenue near North Murray Boulevard. A query check showed the vehicle was actively reported as stolen.

After the alert, deputies saw the vehicle at Platte Avenue and North Powers Boulevard occupied by a driver and a passenger. The vehicle turned northbound on Hathaway Drive from Platte Avenue and entered an apartment complex located on Hathaway Drive. Deputies matched the plate, and Colorado State Patrol Troopers pulled behind the vehicle.

EPSO Deputies activated their lights and pulled in front of the vehicle. The stolen car abruptly stopped and immediately accelerated in reverse, hitting the CSP patrol car at approximately 20 mph. At that time, EPSO performed a tactical front contact block to secure the car and prevent it from fleeing or causing further damage or harm.

Both suspects, the driver identified as 21-year-old Erica Cardena, and the passenger identified as 21-year-old Braeden Shumway, were taken into custody.

Erica Cardena. Courtesy: El Paso County Sheriff’s Office

“This incident demonstrates the value of Flock Safety cameras and how they serve as a powerful tool for law enforcement,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “These cameras enable my deputies to identify criminal activity in our community, respond, and remove criminals from our neighborhoods and streets.”

During a search of the car, a small amount of fentanyl was recovered from Cadena’s wallet along with other drug paraphernalia. Shumway was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. He was charged with Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, served, and released from custody.

EPSO contacted the vehicle owner, who confirmed Cadena had stolen the car earlier in the day. Cadena was booked into the El Paso County Jail for Motor Vehicle Theft, 2nd Degree Assault, Eluding, and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

No members of law enforcement were injured during the incident. The CSP car sustained minor damage.

“I am grateful no one was seriously injured during this criminal event. I am also grateful for the 2023 change in Colorado law (Senate Bill-097), which ensures those who commit motor vehicle theft are charged at the appropriate criminal level (felony),” Sheriff Roybal added. “I thank my deputies and our partners at Colorado State Patrol for restoring property to the victim and holding these crooks accountable.”